The brutal assault of Nation Media photojournalist Chris Omollo by a police officer during a Football Kenya Federation (FKF) Premier League match has triggered widespread outrage and prompted a strong response from the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya (SJAK).
Omollo is currently admitted to Nairobi Hospital after being struck on the back of the head while covering Gor Mahia’s 4-0 win over Mara Sugar on Sunday at Dandora Stadium.
Despite following all protocols—including using a designated media entrance to avoid congestion—Omollo was attacked by an officer with a blunt object, rendering him unconscious and breaking his spectacles in the process.
SJAK has sharply condemned the incident, labeling it a direct attack on press freedom and warning that it could set a dangerous precedent for journalist safety at sporting events.
“This unprovoked attack on a journalist is unacceptable and goes against the spirit of sport,” said SJAK President James Waindi.
“Sports journalists are critical to the development of the industry, and their safety must be protected. We demand swift disciplinary action against the officer responsible.”
In a bold move, SJAK warned that failure to address the incident could lead to a nationwide media boycott of FKF Premier League matches.
“We urge the Football Kenya Federation and the Ministry of Interior to urgently address this rising trend of violence on match days. If FKF fails to act, we will not hesitate to withdraw media coverage,” Waindi added.
The pressure is now mounting on both FKF and the Ministry of Interior to identify and take action against the officer involved, and to implement broader reforms to ensure the safety and dignity of journalists working in Kenya’s sports arenas.
